The South Korean city of Daejon has placed an order for 34 H₂ trams from Hyundai Rotem—one of the largest orders for H₂-powered trams anywhere in the world.

The H₂ fuel cell powered trams, which Hyundai says can travel 200 km without refueling, are planned for deployment in 2028 on Daejon’s long-mooted Urban Railway Line 2, which will comprise a brand new 39km loop around the city.

The deal for the H₂ trams between the city of Daejon (located in the center of the republic) and Hyundai Rotem is worth $210 MM, including inspection and signaling systems.

“Production of the units has already begun,” said Daejeon Mayor Lee Jang-woo, claiming that the H₂ trams would be the first in the world to operate on a loop of this size.

This shows a growing consensus that increased weight, limited driving range and longer recharging times make battery-electric vehicles unviable for commercial transport. Contrastingly, H₂ fuel cells and potentially H₂ combustion engines are able to overcome these barriers.